2022 Annual Oration
Rethinking Homelessness, Health, and Housing: A View from the Streets
Thursday, October 27, 2022, 7:00 - 8:00 p.m – Virtually via Zoom
History of the Oration
The MMS Annual Oration dates back to 1804 when Dr. Isaac Rand delivered his dissertation entitled, On Phthisis Pulmonalis, and the Use of the Warm Bath. For more than 200 years, MMS orators have addressed a wide spectrum of topics germane to the
evolving practice of medicine.
About the Orator
James J. O’Connell, MD
President, Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program
Assistant Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School
To learn more about Dr. James J. O’Connell, click here.
Program Description
Dr. Jim O’Connell, President and Founder of Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, will share the story of how he transitioned from the role of Internal Medicine resident at MGH to one of the country’s first street doctors for those experiencing
homelessness. Recounting his thirty-seven years of serving Boston’s most vulnerable population, Dr. O’Connell will detail the history of homelessness and illuminate the undue burden of co-occurring medical, psychiatric, and substance use disorders
among chronically homeless persons. Importantly, Dr. O’Connell will reflect on the many lessons he’s learned while caring for his patients.
Activity Objectives
Upon completion of this activity, learners should be able to:
- Describe what is known about premature mortality and other health care disparities faced by urban homeless populations
- Identify the importance of incorporating patient feedback into a community-based health care model, including the implementation of a Consumer Advisory Board
- Detail a model of street medicine that is integrated into the community as well as the hospital
- Discuss the undue burden of co-occurring medical, psychiatric, and substance use disorders among chronically homeless persons
Accreditation Statement
The Massachusetts Medical Society is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
AMA Credit Designation Statement
The Massachusetts Medical Society designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.00 AMA PRA Category 1 CreditTM. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
